Cologne to Mainz train with Deutsche Bahn (ICE,IC,EC)

Tue, Jul 21
+ Add return
Deutsche Bahn
Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Deutsche Bahn
Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cologne to Mainz

Showing times and prices for Jul 21

Cheapest price

$33

Average price

$73

Fastest journey

1 h 40 m

Average duration

1 h 52 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

141 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cologne to Mainz is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cologne to Mainz will cost around $73 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $33.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Cologne for Mainz on Tue, Jul 21, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, Jul 21 the direct trains cover the 141 km distance in an average of 1 h 52 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 40 m .

On Tue, Jul 21 the slowest trains will take 2 h 7 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • Deutsche BahnIC 2040
    8:53 AM1h46
    Cologne Hbf
    10:39 AMMainz Hbf
    $331One-way
    0 transfers
  • Deutsche BahnICE 1513 · S8
    8:18 AM2h07
    Cologne Hbf
    10:25 AMMainz Hbf
    $791One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 529 · S8
    8:45 AM1h40
    Cologne Messe/Deutz
    10:25 AMMainz Hbf
    $791One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 119 · 29514
    8:58 AM1h51
    Cologne Messe/Deutz
    10:49 AMMainz Hbf
    $871One-way
    1 transfer
  • Deutsche BahnICE 103 · 29514
    8:54 AM1h55
    Cologne Hbf
    10:49 AMMainz Hbf
    $871One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cologne to Mainz

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cologne to Mainz among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $11. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 51m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $11, and a train costs an average of $13.

Distance: 87 miles (141 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$42

Average price

$15

Average price

Cheapest

$32

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 21m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 51m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 54m

Average total duration

2h 24m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 6m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Deutsche Bahn

Most popular train company

BlaBlaCar

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Cologne to Mainz is a bus with an average price of $15 (€13).

This is compared to other travel options from Cologne to Mainz:

A bus is $26 (€22) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cologne to Mainz costing on average $42 (€34).

The fastest way to travel from Cologne to Mainz is by train with an average journey time of 1h 51m.

Other travel options to Mainz take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 24m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cologne and Mainz including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Mainz among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 15m sooner (1h 51m by train vs 2h 6m by car). Tickets start at around $42 (€34) compared to roughly $32 (€26) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Direct services run with Deutsche Bahn, Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS).

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Cologne to Mainz train times

The table below shows live departures for Cologne to Mainz trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, July 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Deutsche BahnICE 1513 · S8
On time
8:18 AM Cologne Hbf
2h07
10:25 AM Mainz Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 529 · S8
On time
8:45 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
1h40
10:25 AM Mainz Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnIC 2040
On time
8:53 AM Cologne Hbf
1h46
10:39 AM Mainz Hbf
0 transfersDirect
Deutsche BahnICE 103 · 29514
On time
8:54 AM Cologne Hbf
1h55
10:49 AM Mainz Hbf
1 transfer
Deutsche BahnICE 119 · 29514
On time
8:58 AM Cologne Messe/Deutz
1h51
10:49 AM Mainz Hbf
1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cologne to Mainz by train or bus

Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Tue
Jul 21
Wed
Jul 22
Thu
Jul 23
Fri
Jul 24
Sat
Jul 25
Sun
Jul 26
Mon
Jul 27

Why should you book Cologne to Mainz trains with Omio?

Deutsche Bahn as well as Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) and more offer trains services from Cologne to Mainz.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cologne to Mainz.

Why book with Omio vs Deutsche Bahn?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Deutsche Bahn, but also compare tickets for the likes of Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from Cologne to Mainz.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Deutsche Bahn with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cologne to Mainz.

Why book with Omio over Trainline or Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cologne to Mainz.

ReviewsReviews for the rail journey from Cologne to Mainz

userReviewImage
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The customer opinion was acquired via Cimenio. Cimenio incentivises its users for giving an honest opinion and proving the booking with a photo of the travel ticket.
Advantages
IconPüntklchkeit
Disadvantages
IconPrice
A good journey all round, even if the price could have been cheaper. As I only booked just 24 hours before departure, the price for the route was unfortunately surprisingly high. I would have liked to be able to save money here as a student. The toilets were clean and the wifi worked perfectly.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cologne to Mainz

GermanyGermany
GermanyGermany
Icon of train

Trains from Cologne to Mainz run on average 10 times per day, taking around 1h 51m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $13 (€11) but you can travel from only $11 (€9) by bus.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 87 miles (141 km) distance in 1h 27m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $11 (€9)
Distance
87 miles (141 km)
Average train duration
1h 51m
Cheapest ticket price
$13 (€11)
Trains per day
10
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
1h 27m
First train
12:01 AM
Last train
11:57 PM
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
5 days
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $11 (€9)

Train companies: Deutsche Bahn, Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from Cologne to Mainz trainsDeutsche Bahn, Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between Cologne and Mainz from $11 (€9). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Deutsche Bahn

About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 27m
Cheapest Price
$13 (€11)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
11 a day
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Quiet zone

Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 58m
Cheapest Price
$43 (€35)
Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH frequency
8 a day

Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 20m
Cheapest Price
$47 (€39)
Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC) frequency
16 a day

Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 58m
Cheapest Price
$91 (€75)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
1 a day

Complete guide to Mainz

Things to do in Mainz

Discover the best of Mainz — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Mainz trip today.

  • Must visit

Gutenberg Museum

World-class museum dedicated to Johannes Gutenberg, showcasing early printing, rare books, and working press demonstrations.

  • Must visit

Landesmuseum Mainz

State museum with art, archaeology, and Roman finds, spanning ancient artifacts to paintings and decorative arts.

  • Recommended

Museum of Ancient Seafaring

Museum on Roman Mainz featuring military, daily life, and stone monuments from the city’s ancient past.

Euro (€)

Moderate for Germany: hotels and dining are mid-priced, while local transit is reasonable for city stays and day trips.

Average meal costs

Budget
€8-12 for fast food or kebab.
Mid-range
€18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
€60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
€2.80-4.20 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is usually included, but rounding up or adding 5-10% is customary. Round up for cafes and taxis, and hand the tip directly when paying.

FAQs: Trains from Cologne to Mainz

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cologne to Mainz by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Mainz, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cologne to Mainz can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $13 (€11), while the average price is around $42 (€34).
The train from Cologne to Mainz takes 1h 27m and runs 10 per day.
The distance by train from Cologne to Mainz is 87 miles (141 km).
The first train from Cologne to Mainz leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Cologne to Mainz leaves at 11:57 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cologne to Mainz. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Deutsche Bahn, Trans Regio Deutsche Regionalbahn GmbH, Deutsche Bahn Intercity (DB IC), Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cologne to Mainz.
The train station in Cologne that goes to Mainz is Cologne Hbf, which connects to Mainz Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from Cologne to Mainz is by bus, with a cost of around $11 (€9).
Yes, the train journey from Cologne to Mainz is considered scenic as it runs along the Rhine River, offering views of vineyards, castles, and picturesque villages.
Yes, a day trip from Cologne to Mainz is feasible. The journey takes 1h 27m with a distance of 87 miles (141 km). There are 13 train trips available per day.
Two to three days are ideal for exploring Mainz, allowing time to visit its historic sites, such as the Mainz Cathedral and Gutenberg Museum, while enjoying the local cuisine and Rhine River views.
Yes, you can take the train from Cologne to Mainz.
Since both Cologne and Mainz are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Mainz include Stuttgart, Heidelberg, Frankfurt am Main, Mannheim, Bonn.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cologne to Mainz among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the Eurail Pass and Interrail Pass are valid on most trains in Germany, including Deutsche Bahn regional and long-distance services. Some high-speed trains may require a reservation fee even with a rail pass.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
In Mainz, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Scams involving overcharging in taxis or at markets can occur, so always agree on prices beforehand. It's advisable to stay vigilant in busy places and keep valuables secure to ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Cologne to Mainz

Most Cologne to Mainz trains use the Köln Hbf to Mainz Hbf station pair, with some services arriving at Mainz Römisches Theater. Use this guide to compare Cologne and Mainz train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Cologne
Arrival train stations in Mainz

Which Cologne station do trains to Mainz leave from?

Trains from Cologne to Mainz leave from Köln Hbf. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Cologne city centre at Trankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, Germany.
Köln HbfTrankgasse 11, 50667 Cologne, GermanyWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Köln Hbf from Cologne city centre

Köln Hbf is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb26 · 16m · $9 · every ~3 min
BusIvano-Frankivsk · 20m
Subway16 · 46m · $6 · every ~9 min
18, 16 · 51m · $6 · every ~14 min

Köln Hbf train station facilities and services

Köln Hbf has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: asiagourmet, Coffee Fellows, dean&david, Dunkin' Donuts, KFC, McDonald's, Pizza Hut, Nordsee, Starbucks, Schweinske, & more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi for 30 minutes only. ATMs are available at Köln Hbf.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Köln Hbf. Information desks are one near the departure/arrival board and another near the escalators close to Platforms 4 and 5.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is there are luggage lockers in the station. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Köln Hbf: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Köln Hbf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Hbf: Wheelchair accessible & mobility assistance staff. Contact the Mobility Service Centre at +49 3065212888 or [email protected].

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Wyndham Koeln, Hilton Cologne, Excelsior Hotel Ernst.

Köln Messe/DeutzKöln Messe/Deutz, Ottoplatz 7, 50679 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Köln Messe/Deutz from Cologne city centre

Köln Messe/Deutz is 1 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRb26 · 12m · $4 · every ~3 min
Subway1, 9, 4, 3 · 15m · $2 · every ~52 min

Köln Messe/Deutz train station facilities and services

Köln Messe/Deutz has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Imbiss Athena, Arena Grill, Cafe Especial, Joe Champs

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. ATMs are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Information desks are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Köln Messe/Deutz. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Köln Messe/Deutz: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Köln Messe/Deutz.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Pension Helenenwall, Zur guten Quelle, Zum Goldenen Hut, Merlin.

Köln/Bonn FlughafenKöln/Bonn Flughafen, Waldstraße 247, 51147 KölnWifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Köln/Bonn Flughafen from Cologne city centre

Köln/Bonn Flughafen is 13 km from Cologne city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRe · 17m · $5 · every ~2 min
Rb26 · 21m · $5
Re · 23m · every ~2 min
BusS19, S12 · 29m · $6

Köln/Bonn Flughafen train station facilities and services

Köln/Bonn Flughafen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Café Bistro Leysieffer, Mishba, Ständige Vertretung, Kamps

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. ATMs are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Information desks are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Köln/Bonn Flughafen.

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